New care unit to help elderly return home after hospital

Elderly residents in Redcar recovering from a period of time in hospital will now be able to make use of a care unit that aims to help people regain their independence. Overnight care will be given to those admitted and will last up to six weeks, depending on the needs of the individual patient. This means that those living in modified houses with adaptations such as home stair lifts will be able to receive care before returning back to their houses to continue to live independently.

Based in St Peter’s Court care home, the unit caters for anyone who may not have help at home when they return from a stay in hospital, such as relatives that are available to assist. It is hoped that this will relieve pressure on busy hospitals, prevent the elderly from having to stay in long-term residential care, and provide elderly residents with confidence to return home alone.

High quality care for those in-between hospital and home

The new unit currently has almost ten members of staff, recruited by the owners of the care home, who are employed to work solely with those visiting St Peter’s Court care home following a return from hospital. All employees have been trained with specific Redcar and Cleveland Borough council’s specific training to ensure they are qualified to a high standard and are able to care for the patients to the best of their ability.

Described as ‘hotel-like’ surroundings, the unit provides a comfortable in-between environment for the elderly and has 24-hour care available, seven days a week. Two members of staff will be present at all times, with added support overnight if any issues with residents occur. Those staying at the unit will also receive therapy services from the South Tees NHS Trust, which include physiotherapy and occupational therapy to provide further assistance to the elderly visitors.

Image Credit: University of Exeter (Flickr.com)

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